How Many British Officers Were Forced into the Black Hole of Calcutta?

During the tumultuous period of British colonial rule in India, one event that stands out in history is the infamous incident of the Black Hole of Calcutta. This incident, occurring on the night of June 20, 1756, has forever etched its place in the annals of British and Indian history. But, how many British officers were forced into the dreaded Black Hole of Calcutta?

The Black Hole of Calcutta refers to a small, stifling prison cell that was located in Fort William, Kolkata (previously known as Calcutta). Following the capture of the fort by the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj ud-Daulah, a number of British prisoners were confined within this cramped space. The exact number of officers forced into the Black Hole, however, has been a topic of debate among historians.

Various historical accounts suggest that the number of British officers trapped in the Black Hole of Calcutta ranged from 64 to 146. The most widely accepted figure, however, is 146 prisoners. This number was reported by John Zephaniah Holwell, one of the survivors of the incident, who provided a detailed account of the horrific night.

According to Holwell's narrative, the prisoners were crammed into a space measuring only 18 by 14 feet. The lack of ventilation and extreme heat made the conditions unbearable for those trapped inside. As the night wore on, the prisoners suffered from suffocation, dehydration, and exhaustion. When the cell was finally opened the next morning, only 23 prisoners emerged alive.

The incident of the Black Hole of Calcutta sent shockwaves through the British Empire and became a rallying cry for revenge against the Nawab of Bengal. It played a crucial role in shaping the course of British imperialism in India.

In conclusion, the exact number of British officers forced into the Black Hole of Calcutta was 146, as reported by survivor John Zephaniah Holwell. This tragic event remains a haunting reminder of the brutality and inhumanity that can occur during times of conflict, leaving an indelible mark on the shared history of Britain and India.

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